Vanity numbers are phone numbers that typically spell out a word or a phrase. Famous examples include 1-800-FLOWERS and 1-800-CONTACTS. Instead of requiring customers to look up or memorize a seemingly random set of numbers, they can recall the number easily and use the corresponding letters on a phone’s alphanumeric buttons to dial quickly.
Vanity numbers do not necessarily have to be seven digits long, as is the case with both 1-877-KARS-4-KIDS and 1-800-PROGRESSIVE. There are two main types of vanity numbers: toll-free and local.
Toll-Free Vanity Numbers
With a toll-free number, a customer does not get charged for placing the call, hence the “toll-free.” This expense instead falls on the business. Toll-free numbers are a great option if you currently serve or plan to serve a national customer base.
Common toll-free number prefixes include 800, 877 and 866.
Local Vanity Numbers
Vanity numbers can also have local prefixes like 212 or 310. With a local number, customers may have the onus of paying for the call, depending on where they dial in from or what phone provider they use.
If your business is focused on serving a specific area, this might be a better option because it builds trust and familiarity.
